The Chicago Cubs faced a challenging scenario in Milwaukee last October during the National League Division Series. Manager Craig Counsell opted for a ‘bullpen day’ after deciding that Shota Imanaga wasn’t suitable for the pivotal Game 5. On Sunday, the decision for a ‘bullpen day’ proved effective in a 4-3, 10-inning win over the Brewers. The Cubs had to adjust following Ben Brown’s neck injury and a rainout in New York leading to a doubleheader against the Mets.
The strategic move wasn’t Craig Counsell’s first choice against the division leaders, yet it worked. The Cubs’ bullpen held steady, utilizing seven relievers, including a few recent additions such as Bryse Wilson, who was claimed off waivers. The offense managed to score through a wild pitch and a bases-loaded walk, rounding off their road trip with a 6-1 record.
“The guys are having fun right now, and we’re playing good baseball,” Counsell said. “We just named five or six pitchers that did some great work today. We did very little offensively today, honestly. But we got enough done because we got great pitching performances.”
Chicago Cubs designated hitter Seiya Suzuki contributed significantly by hitting a two-RBI single during the 10th inning. This hit helped the Cubs push past the Brewers. The Cubs improved their record to 12-4 in their last 16 games after a poor stretch where they went 7-22.
Center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong reflected on the team’s journey, mentioning pride in their recent road performance against two National League opponents. He emphasized their understanding of the team’s identity within the clubhouse.
The game turned dramatic in the 10th inning. Brewers reliever Joel Kuhnel struggled under pressure. After intentionally walking Crow-Armstrong to face Alex Bregman, Kuhnel lost his focus. This led to a hit-by-pitch on Bregman followed by a walk to Michael Busch that forced in the go-ahead run. Suzuki’s two-run single extended the lead, helping seal the win.
Pitcher Ethan Roberts faced a tense moment, giving up a run-scoring single to Christian Yelich and loading the bases with no outs. However, Cubs’ Jordan Wicks relieved him, walking in a run before ending the inning with a double play.
Wicks credited the game as a ‘huge confidence boost.’ Ryan Rolison started the game, allowing a home run to Gary Sanchez within two innings. Bryse Wilson played a crucial role, throwing 4 1/3 shutout innings, having previous experience as a starter in Triple-A. His familiarity with Brewers-Cubs games helped him manage the situation well.
The Cubs used 13 different relievers over the six-game road trip. The pitching staff dealt with challenging games, including a sore wrist injury sustained by Matt Shaw, which was a precautionary reason for his pinch-hitting. Craig Counsell refrained from criticizing Bregman for a nonchalant play in the fifth inning that nearly resulted in a missed out.
Looking ahead, the Cubs recognized the importance of their bullpen. Counsell highlighted having suitable performers on the mound as paramount to retaining their competitive stance. Pete Crow-Armstrong affirmed the team’s belief in their pitching and defensive capabilities.
The Cubs aim to maintain their early May form, instilling confidence in their fanbase by continuing their winning streak. Consistency remains the key for the Cubs to secure a favorable position through the rest of the season.
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